The time it takes to get state tax refunds back varies by state and depends on factors such as how you filed (electronically or by mail) and your refund delivery method (direct deposit or check).

General Timeline for State Tax Refunds

• Most states process refunds within a few weeks, but the exact timing varies.
• States typically require about 7 to 10 business days to process refunds if filed electronically, but it can take longer if you file by mail or if your return requires manual review

• For example, New Jersey processes electronic returns in a minimum of 4 weeks and paper returns in about 12 weeks or longer if manual processing is needed

• Massachusetts suggests allowing 4 to 6 weeks for e-filed returns and 8 to 10 weeks for paper returns before expecting a refund or a request for more information

Factors Affecting Timing

• Filing electronically usually speeds up processing compared to mailing paper returns.
• Choosing direct deposit typically results in faster receipt of your refund than receiving a check by mail.
• Errors, incomplete returns, or claims for certain credits can delay refunds.
• Some states have specific refund tracking tools on their tax department websites to check status

Comparison with Federal Refunds

• The IRS generally issues federal refunds within 21 days of electronically filing, with most refunds arriving within this timeframe if direct deposit is chosen

• State refunds often take a similar or longer time depending on the state’s processing speed and system.

Summary

• Expect state tax refunds to take anywhere from about 1 to 6 weeks for electronic filings, longer for paper filings.
• Direct deposit is the fastest refund delivery method.
• Check your specific state’s tax department website for exact timelines and refund tracking tools.

This means you should typically allow at least 2 to 6 weeks to receive your state tax refund after filing electronically, with longer waits possible for paper returns or if additional review is needed